This week in Wandsworth:

Late-Night McDonald's Hours Approved Amidst Resident Concerns; New Cafe Licence Granted with Conditions

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Tuesday, 24 March 2026, to consider two applications that could impact local amenity: an extension of operating hours for a McDonald's restaurant in Balham and a new premises licence for Roha Park Cafe in Wandsworth. While the McDonald's application was granted in full, the cafe's licence was approved with modifications following significant resident objections. Read the full meeting details here.

McDonald's Balham: 24-Hour Operation Greenlit

Inspire Restaurants Limited successfully applied to extend the operating hours of their McDonald's restaurant at 159 Balham High Road, SW12 9AU to allow for 24-hour trading. The application sought to extend hours by three hours on Sunday to Thursday mornings and two hours on Friday and Saturday mornings.

• The Stakes: For residents living near the Balham High Road McDonald's, this decision means potential increases in late-night noise, litter, and anti-social behaviour. While the applicant argued that extended hours would benefit staff and create jobs, objectors voiced concerns about the impact on the local environment, particularly during unsociable hours.
• Resident Objections: One representation was received from a member of the public expressing concerns about potential noise, litter, and anti-social behaviour.
• Applicant's Case: The applicant's barrister, Ken Stanzabelle, highlighted that planning permission for 24-hour operation had already been granted and that existing security arrangements would continue. They emphasised that the extended hours would provide more logical shift patterns for staff and potentially create more jobs.
• Decision: The subcommittee resolved to grant the application as requested, allowing for 24-hour trading.

Roha Park Cafe: Licence Granted with Modified Hours and Conditions

Roha Park Cafe, located at the One O'Clock Building in Windmill Gardens, SW18 2PH, was granted a new premises licence to sell alcohol for consumption on the premises and provide regulated entertainment (recorded music). However, the proposed hours and some conditions were modified following objections from local residents.

• The Stakes: This decision impacts residents living near Windmill Gardens, who raised concerns about the potential for increased noise, public disorder, and the cumulative impact of a new licensed venue in a residential area adjacent to a children's playground. The modifications aim to mitigate these risks and protect the amenity of the neighbourhood.
• Resident Concerns: Six representations were received from other persons, primarily concerning public nuisance, crime and disorder, and the protection of children from harm. Concerns included the cumulative impact of increased activity, litter, public disorder, and children being exposed to the sale of alcohol. Residents expressed worries about noise from outdoor seating and music, especially with open windows during warmer months.
• Applicant's Position: The applicant, Inesa Qalliia, stated that Roha Park Cafe would be a small, family-run business focused on coffee and light refreshments, with alcohol sales being supplementary and light. She assured the committee that alcohol would not be served in the playground area and that outdoor seating would not be visible from it.
• Decision: The subcommittee decided to grant the application with modifications. The proposed hours for alcohol sales were amended to 10 am to 10:30 pm Monday to Saturday, and 11 am to 9:30 pm on Sundays. Recorded music hours were also adjusted to 10 am to 10:30 pm Monday to Saturday, and 11 am to 9:30 pm on Sundays. Additional conditions were imposed, including that all drinks in external seating areas must be served in toughened glass or polycarbonate containers, and no glass bottles would be permitted in these areas. A condition was also added requiring a contact number to be publicly displayed for noise and nuisance complaints. The subcommittee noted that planning issues were outside their remit and their decision was based on the four licensing objectives.

Passenger Transport Liaison Group Discusses Safety and Infrastructure Upgrades

The Passenger Transport Liaison Group met on Wednesday, 25 March 2026, to review public transport safety initiatives, bus performance, and significant infrastructure projects affecting rail and underground services in the borough. Read the full meeting details here.

Enhancing Passenger Safety and Bus Performance

A key focus of the meeting was the Safe Spaces scheme at Clapham Junction Station, aimed at improving passenger safety. Updates were also provided on bus performance, including the Bus Quality of Service Indicators report and the performance of the G1 Bus Route, which has recently introduced zero-emission buses.

• The Stakes: Ensuring the safety and reliability of public transport is crucial for all residents, particularly vulnerable groups who may rely heavily on these services. Improvements in safety and performance directly contribute to a more accessible and pleasant travel experience.
• Zero-Emission Buses: The introduction of zero-emission buses on the G1 route signifies a commitment to environmental sustainability and improved air quality within the borough.

Major Station Upgrades Underway

Network Rail provided updates on significant infrastructure projects at two key stations:

• Wandsworth Town Station: The 'Access for All' programme is progressing with the development of a new second entrance, aiming to improve accessibility for passengers.
• Queenstown Road Station: Construction of a second entrance is also underway, further enhancing passenger flow and accessibility.

Transport for London (TfL) also presented updates on Step Free Access projects across Wandsworth and the refurbishment of the rail bridge at East Putney Underground Station.

• The Stakes: These infrastructure upgrades are vital for improving accessibility for people with disabilities, parents with prams, and elderly passengers, ensuring that public transport is usable for everyone. Enhanced station facilities can also lead to a more efficient and pleasant commuting experience.

This week in Wandsworth:

• The Safer Neighbourhood Board discussed crime statistics, community safety initiatives, and stop and search updates.
• The Wandsworth Schools Forum reviewed the High Needs Budget, therapy services, and special educational needs support.

Safer Neighbourhood Board - Tuesday 17 March 2026

The Safer Neighbourhood Board met on Tuesday 17 March 2026 to address a range of community safety matters. A significant focus of the meeting was the review of the Safer Neighbourhood Board Data Pack, which provided detailed crime statistics and analytical information for the borough. This pack, available in the Public reports pack 17th-Mar-2026 18.30 Safer Neighbourhood Board, highlighted trends in crime over the 12 months ending February 2026. Notably, burglary figures showed a decrease of 7.5%, while violence against the person offences saw an increase of 9.7%. Motor vehicle theft had risen by 5.9%, and sexual offences had increased by 12%.

The data pack also detailed crime statistics at a ward level. For instance, Wandsworth Town recorded the highest number of robberies, while Tooting Broadway had the highest number of sexual offences and was also the most prevalent area for violence against the person. The report also included findings from the Trust and Confidence Survey, indicating a slight decrease in public trust in the Metropolitan Police Service.

The board was also scheduled to consider and approve proposed schemes for Safer Neighbourhood Board (SNB) funding for the 2026-27 financial year. Additionally, there was an opportunity for the board to ask questions of the Superintendent for Wandsworth. An update on stop and search activities was provided by Andrew Healey, the Stop and Search Lead. Ward Panel Chairs from across the borough also presented their comments and updates, offering local perspectives on community safety issues. For example, the Trinity Ward Panel Chair reported an increase in offences, partly attributed to officer deployment for protests, and expressed concerns about the control of e-bikes and e-scooters. The Furzedown Ward Panel noted an increase in robberies and discussed a TikTok trend involving young people damaging front doors, alongside ongoing issues with fly-tipping and church break-ins. The Southfields Ward Panel reported the return of their Dedicated Ward Officer and PCSO from sick leave.

Wandsworth Schools Forum - Monday 16 March 2026

The Wandsworth Schools Forum convened on Monday 16 March 2026 to discuss the High Needs Budget for the upcoming financial year, alongside updates on therapy services and various special educational needs support initiatives. A key item on the agenda was the High Needs Budget for FY 2026-27. The total High Needs Block (HNB) allocation to Wandsworth for this period was £75.451 million. After academy recoupment and schools block contributions, the projected available HNB income was £71.167 million. The report highlighted that this funding did not cover the projected overspend for FY 2025-26, which was estimated at £14.964 million. The Department for Education (DfE) is introducing a High Needs Stability Grant, contingent on the submission and approval of a Local SEND Reform Plan, to assist councils in managing deficits.

The forum also received a strategic update on the Council's commissioned Speech and Language Therapy (SLT) and Occupational Therapy (OT) services, delivered by St George's Foundation Trust (SGFT). The Council and the NHS South West London Integrated Care Board (ICB) jointly commission these services, with an annual investment exceeding £7.3 million. The current contract with SGFT was due to expire on 31 March 2026, and proposals for a direct award for a further two years, with an option to extend, were presented. A new OT offer for children on SEN Support in mainstream schools was proposed, with an allocation of up to £468,500 per annum from the High Needs Block. The report emphasised the cost avoidance achieved by investing in NHS therapy services compared to independent providers.

An update was also provided on the SEN Support Fund for FY 2026-27, with plans to allocate £146,000 to fund projects aimed at reducing Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) assessment requests. The report detailed training delivered in 2025-26 for initiatives such as ELSA (Emotional Literacy Support Assistant) and ELKLAN (speech and language training), noting a plateau in EHC assessment requests, which contrasted with the national trend of increases. Positive outcomes for Wandsworth SEN pupils in primary and KS4 attainment, as well as attendance rates, were highlighted compared to national averages.

The meeting also included an update on the Enhanced Reception Transition Project (ERTP), with a recommendation to set aside £140,000 from the Early Years budget for its second year. The ERTP pilot aims to provide enhanced support for children transitioning from nursery to reception, particularly those with EHCP needs assessments that were initially refused or were heading towards mediation. An update and development proposal for the Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) Ambassador Programme was also scheduled, aiming to facilitate whole-school change by developing a universal level of awareness and understanding about ADHD. Finally, a report on the Schools Forum membership was presented for decision, concerning the 2026-2030 membership model.

This week in Wandsworth:

Planning Committee Tackles Major Redevelopment and Tree Protection

Wandsworth's Planning Applications Committee met this week to consider a range of significant planning applications, including a major mixed-use development in Roehampton and the confirmation of Tree Preservation Orders across the borough. These decisions will shape the future landscape of our neighbourhoods and impact the environment for residents. Read the full meeting details here.

Alton Estate Redevelopment Moves Forward

A key item on the agenda was a hybrid planning application for the redevelopment of land at Nos. 1 to 29 Danebury Avenue, Roehampton. The proposal includes the demolition of existing buildings and the construction of two new buildings to provide 55 affordable homes, alongside significant non-residential floorspace for a new library, youth centre, Council offices, and a healthcare facility.

• The Stakes: This development promises much-needed affordable housing and improved community facilities for Roehampton. However, concerns have been raised about the impact on the local conservation area and the scale of the new buildings. For residents, this means new homes and amenities, but also potential changes to their immediate environment.
• Community Benefits: The inclusion of a replacement library, youth centre, and healthcare facility aims to enhance the quality of life for existing and future residents.
• Heritage Concerns: The application was discussed by the Conservation and Heritage Advisory Committee[^1] on 10 March 2026, where concerns were raised about the impact on views into the Roehampton Village Conservation Area, particularly from Medfield Street. The committee noted that the officer's report identified harm through impact on views.
• Potential Outcomes: The application was recommended for approval subject to conditions and a legal agreement, indicating a move towards delivering these new facilities and homes.

Protecting Wandsworth's Trees

The committee was also scheduled to consider the confirmation of three Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). These orders are crucial for protecting trees that hold significant amenity value, contributing to the borough's green spaces and biodiversity.

• The Stakes: Trees are vital for our environment, providing shade, improving air quality, and supporting local wildlife. TPOs ensure that these valuable natural assets are protected from unnecessary felling, safeguarding the character and health of our neighbourhoods.
• Orders Under Consideration:
  • Southfields Lawn Tennis Club: A TPO covering four trees, including a Sycamore and three Lime trees, was reviewed. Despite an objection from an arboricultural consultant, the council's tree officer deemed the trees suitable for protection.
  • 34 Rodway Road: A TPO protecting a Lime tree in a residential garden was considered, with no objections received.
  • 220 Balham High Road and Trinity St. Mary's CE Primary School: A TPO protecting five Robinia trees was discussed. While an objection was raised regarding the structural soundness of some trees, a subsequent application for their felling and replacement had already been approved.

Other Planning Matters

The committee also reviewed several other planning applications, including proposals for new developments at Vauxhall Square, 1 Riverside Yard, 1A & 1B Manfred Road, and 62 A & B Lavender Sweep. These applications cover a range of uses, from residential and commercial to industrial, and demonstrate the ongoing development pressures within the borough.

Joint Pensions Committee Addresses Fund Valuation and Responsible Investment

The Joint Pensions Committee met on Tuesday 10 March 2026 to review the outcome of the 2025 Pension Fund Valuation, discuss the council's approach to Responsible Investment, and approve the Pension Fund Budget for 2026-2029. Read the full meeting details here.

Pension Fund Valuation Shows Strong Surplus

A key outcome of the meeting was the confirmation of a significant surplus in the Pension Fund. The 2025 triennial valuation revealed a surplus of £0.50 billion, with a funding level of 121%, an improvement from the previous valuation.

• The Stakes: A healthy pension fund is crucial for ensuring the long-term financial security of retired council employees and for managing the council's future financial liabilities. A strong surplus means the fund is well-positioned to meet its obligations.
• Employer Contributions: The valuation results will inform new employer contribution rates from April 2026, with a deficit recovery period of 6 years for employers in deficit. This ensures a sustainable approach to funding pension liabilities.
• Funding Strategy: The committee noted the revised Funding Strategy Statement, which guides the management of the pension fund's assets and liabilities.

Responsible Investment Policy Under Review

The committee considered the council's approach to Responsible Investment (RI), particularly in response to deputation requests concerning ethical divestment.

• The Stakes: Decisions on responsible investment reflect the council's values and can have a significant impact on companies and industries. For residents, it means understanding how their local authority is using its financial power to promote ethical practices and address societal concerns.
• Legal and Financial Considerations: The report acknowledged legal advice emphasizing the primacy of financial return and prudent risk management, while also recognising the constrained use of non-financial factors.
• Proposed Approach: A risk-based, evidence-led approach to exclusions or reallocations was proposed, alongside a consultation process. The committee agreed to an officer work programme and authorised the Director of Financial Services to engage with London CIV and conduct an exposure-mapping exercise.
• Trade Union Input: A deputation request from UNISON and Wandsworth GMB was noted, indicating a desire for trade union involvement in ethical disinvestment discussions.

Pension Fund Budget Approved

The Pension Fund Cash Budget for 2025-2029 was presented and approved. The budget reflects the valuation outcomes and market information, projecting a net cash outflow that will be funded by investment returns.

Audit Committee Reviews Surveillance Powers and Fraud Prevention

The Audit Committee met on Wednesday 11 March 2026 to review the council's use of surveillance powers under the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA), its internal audit strategy, and fraud prevention efforts. Read the full meeting details here.

RIPA Powers Used Sparingly for Blue Badge Fraud

The committee received an update on the council's use of RIPA powers, which are primarily employed for investigating blue badge fraud. The report confirmed that facial recognition technology is not in use, with surveillance relying on officers and handheld equipment.

• The Stakes: The use of surveillance powers is a sensitive issue, requiring a balance between effective law enforcement and the protection of individual privacy. For residents, it means understanding how these powers are used to combat fraud and maintain public safety.
• Limited Use: Surveillance is conducted either under the formal RIPA shield or without it, depending on the nature of the suspected offence. Two cases prosecuted under the RIPA shield resulted in one vehicle impoundment and blue badge seizure. Seven instances of surveillance were carried out without the formal shield.
• Oversight and Review: The committee was assured that the council's use of RIPA powers is subject to ad hoc independent reviews and annual inspections as part of a five-borough partnership, ensuring appropriate oversight.

Internal Audit Strategy and Fraud Update

The committee approved the council's internal audit strategy and plan for the upcoming year. Discussions also covered the fraud progress report, highlighting the team's efforts in fraud prevention and detection.

• The Stakes: A robust internal audit function and effective fraud prevention measures are essential for safeguarding public funds and ensuring the integrity of council services. For residents, this means confidence that their council tax is being used responsibly and that fraud is being actively combatted.
• Key Focus Areas: The internal audit plan includes audits on the transformation program and cybersecurity. The fraud update detailed the indicative fraud plan, with a focus on prevention, and reported on the outcomes of various activities.
• AI and Fraud: The committee discussed the growing threat of Artificial Intelligence (AI) being used by fraudsters. The council's fraud team is actively engaging with the Government Counter-Fraud Profession to stay abreast of these evolving threats and is developing new investigators through apprenticeships.
• Data Analytics: Efforts are underway to enhance data testing within audits, with a target of 50% of audits covering data testing by 2027. This aims to move towards full population tests rather than samples, providing more comprehensive insights.

Other Matters

• Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education: This council met on Monday 9 March 2026. The meeting's summary was pending council publication. Read the full meeting details here.
• Conservation and Heritage Advisory Committee: This committee met on Tuesday 10 March 2026 to review planning applications impacting conservation areas and listed buildings, and to discuss recent decisions on planning applications. Read the full meeting details here.

This week in Wandsworth:

St. George's Hospital Faces Scrutiny Over Performance and Financial Challenges

The Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee met this week to examine the performance of St. George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. The Trust presented a detailed report highlighting both areas of progress and significant ongoing challenges, particularly concerning financial stability and patient care pathways. Read the full meeting details here.

Performance Update: Mixed Results for St. George's

The committee received an update on the Trust's operational performance, which showed a mixed picture. While emergency department four-hour performance remained strong, with nearly 13,000 attendances in December 2025, challenges persist in patient flow and waiting times for certain treatments.

• The Stakes: The performance of St. George's directly impacts the health and well-being of Wandsworth residents. Delays in treatment, particularly for long-wait pathways and cancer care, can have serious consequences for patients' health outcomes and quality of life.
• Progress and Challenges: The Trust has made headway in eliminating 65-week waiters and is focusing on reducing 52-week waiters. Diagnostic performance and faster cancer diagnosis standards are also within the upper quartile. However, the 62-day cancer standard remains a challenge, partly due to limited theatre capacity.
• Winter Pressures: The report detailed preparations for winter pressures, including communications to guide residents to appropriate services like NHS 111 online, GP hubs, and pharmacies for non-emergency needs.
• Financial Strain: A significant concern is the Trust's financial outlook. While forecasting a breakeven for 2025/26, the projected deficit for 2026/27 is £87.9 million, expected to rise to £108.8 million due to reduced deficit support funding. This financial pressure could impact service delivery and investment in patient care.
• Industrial Action: The report acknowledged the impact of industrial action by junior doctors and healthcare assistants, which led to the rescheduling of elective procedures and outpatient appointments.
• CQC Ratings: Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspections revealed that urgent and emergency care, and surgery, were rated as 'requires improvement', with surgery dropping from a 'good' rating. Maternity services improved from 'inadequate' to 'requires improvement', and the Trust's leadership was also rated as 'requires improvement'.

Councillor George Crivelli, the opposition's spokesman on health, questioned the feasibility of meeting government targets for waiting times, noting the current performance of around 60% against a target of 65% by March 2026. He also probed the ambitious savings target of £90.6 million, asking for guarantees that patient care would not be compromised. The Trust assured the committee that rigorous quality impact assessments, led by clinical staff, are in place to safeguard services.

Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG): A Call for Consistent Prevention

The committee also reviewed the findings and recommendations of the Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Task and Finish Group. The report highlighted a strong desire from young people to engage in conversations about VAWG, but noted that current educational approaches are often inconsistent.

• The Stakes: Effective prevention strategies are crucial for protecting women and girls from violence and abuse. Inconsistent or fragmented approaches can leave vulnerable individuals without the support and education they need.
• Key Themes: The report identified five key themes:
  • Young people want to discuss VAWG, but education is not consistent.
  • Online spaces can lead to young people experiencing harmful content in isolation.
  • A sense of belonging, fostered by accessible activities, is important for young people.
  • Prevention services exist but are not always visible or connected.
  • Prevention strategies need to be inclusive and culturally competent.
• Recommendations: The group recommended enhancing VAWG prevention in schools through co-produced interventions, ensuring a robust systems approach across agencies, and maintaining ongoing engagement with survivors, particularly from seldom-heard communities.

Adult Social Care Performance: Strengths and Areas for Development

The committee received the 2024/25 Adult Social Care Outcomes Framework Indicators Annual Performance Report. Wandsworth's performance was generally strong, with 70% of indicators in the top two quartiles compared to London and nationally.

• The Stakes: The quality of adult social care directly impacts the independence, well-being, and safety of vulnerable residents, including the elderly and those with disabilities.
• Positive Indicators: Wandsworth ranked highly for social contact and satisfaction with care and support. All residential adult social care providers are rated as good or outstanding by the CQC.
• Areas for Improvement: The 'adjusted social care quality of life indicator' moved into the lowest quartile nationally, and performance on older people discharged from hospital into reablement who remain in the community within 12 weeks was also in the lowest quartile in London. The report noted that providers are reporting improvements in staff recruitment, though retention remains a challenge.

Cabinet Approves Balanced Budget and Significant Capital Investments

Wandsworth's Cabinet met on Monday, 23 February 2026, to approve the council's budget and council tax for the upcoming year, alongside significant additions to the capital programme. Read the full meeting details here.

Council Tax Freeze Maintained, Adult Social Care Precept Increased

The Cabinet approved a balanced budget for the fourth consecutive year, freezing the main element of council tax for the fourth year running. This decision aims to ease the financial burden on residents, particularly those most vulnerable.

• The Stakes: This decision directly affects household budgets across Wandsworth. While a council tax freeze is welcome, the 2% increase in the adult social care precept reflects the growing demand and cost of supporting elderly and vulnerable residents, a critical service for many families.
• Financial Prudence: The freeze was achieved through sound financial management, resulting in high reserves and low debt. Despite the Local Government Finance Settlement disadvantaging Wandsworth, the council's strategy allows for this freeze.
• Adult Social Care: A 2% increase for the adult social care precept was implemented to protect essential services for those who rely on them.

Over £52 Million Added to Capital Programme

The Cabinet also approved significant additions to the General Fund Capital Programme, totalling £52.3 million for 2026/27 and future years. This investment is part of the council's decade of renewal strategy.

• The Stakes: These capital investments are crucial for improving local infrastructure, leisure facilities, and community spaces, benefiting residents for years to come. However, the funding mix, including borrowing, requires careful long-term financial planning.
• Key Projects: Major investments include £19.5 million for a new family and community building at Portswood Place as part of the Alton Estate regeneration, £12.5 million for leisure facilities including new 3G pitches, and £8 million for highway and public realm improvements.
• Funding Sources: The investment will be funded through grants, developer contributions, reserves, and borrowing.

Other Key Decisions

The Cabinet also reviewed the Treasury Management Policy, the Schools Maintenance Capital Programme, and the Biodiversity Action Plan. A report from the Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Task and Finish Group was also presented, recommending enhanced prevention strategies in schools and a more robust systems approach across agencies.

Richmond and Wandsworth Joint Staffing Committee Discusses Workforce and Pay Policy

The Richmond and Wandsworth Joint Staffing Committee met on Tuesday, 24 February 2026, to review workforce indicators, consider the proposed pay policy for the upcoming financial year, and discuss family leave policies. Read the full meeting details here.

Workforce Indicators Show Declining Turnover

The committee received an update on workforce indicators for the third quarter of 2025/26. A key positive trend was a declining turnover rate, which stood at 11.8% by the end of December 2025, below the London average.

• The Stakes: A stable workforce is essential for delivering consistent and high-quality public services. High staff turnover can lead to service disruption, increased recruitment costs, and a loss of institutional knowledge.
• Positive Trends: The report also noted an increase in permanent staff and an improvement in recruitment efficiency, with the average time to hire falling significantly. Sickness absence also decreased, with an average of eight days lost per employee.
• Areas for Concern: Despite positive trends, mental health issues remain the most significant contributor to long-term sickness. Agency staffing expenditure was also highlighted as a significant cost, exceeding £21 million for 2025/26.

Proposed Pay Policy for 2026/27

The committee considered the proposed Pay Policy Statement for 2026/27. The policy aims to address recruitment and retention challenges, particularly in specialist areas, and maintain fair pay practices.

• The Stakes: The pay policy directly impacts the council's ability to attract and retain skilled staff, which is crucial for delivering effective services. It also ensures transparency and fairness in remuneration.
• Key Considerations: The policy addresses ongoing pressures in areas like AI and digital transformation, as well as a trend of retirements. It aims to balance competitive pay with fiscal responsibility. The report noted a mean Gender Pay Gap of 5.6% and a pay multiple of 6.46.

Review of Politically Restricted Posts and Family Leave Policies

The committee also reviewed the list of politically restricted and sensitive posts, a requirement under the Local Government and Housing Act 1989. Reports on family leave policies were also scheduled for discussion, though specific details were marked as restricted.